Danish football in uproar over disgusting attack on Kasper Schmeichel

In partnership with

The Celtic Star

·26 marzo 2025

Danish football in uproar over disgusting attack on Kasper Schmeichel

PFA Chiefs have condemned ‘distasteful’ comments made by journalists on the Celtic Goalkeeper’s weight and injury…

UEFA Nations League: Portugal – Denmark. Referee Slavko Vincic looks at Denmark’s goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, who is in pain in the shoulder during the UEFA Nations League playoff match in League A at JosÃ Alvalade Stadium in Lisbon, Portugal on Sunday, March 23, 2025. (Photo: Bo Amstrup Ritzau Scanpix)

A heated controversy erupted in Denmark after Celtic goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel was subjected to a scathing editorial that not only ridiculed his physique but also made an offensive comparison to a child with polio. The Danish Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) has strongly condemned the article, calling it an unacceptable personal attack.

OneFootball Video

The 38-year-old shot-stopper found himself at the center of the storm following Denmark’s 5-2 Nations League extra-time defeat to Portugal. Despite sustaining an injury, Schmeichel continued to play, earning widespread praise from fans, teammates, and the public for his resilience. However, the local press took a drastically different stance, launching an attack that has been met with widespread outrage.

PFA Chief Slams ‘Over the Line’ Remarks

Michael Sahl Hansen, head of the Danish PFA, was quick to condemn the editorial, which accused Schmeichel of being both stubborn and out of shape. Speaking out against the remarks, Hansen did not hold back in his criticism of the journalist responsible. As reported by the Daily Record, the head of the Danish PFA said…

UEFA Nations League: Portugal – Denmark Denmark’s goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel is in pain in the shoulder during the UEFA Nations League playoff match in League A between Portugal and Denmark at JosÃ Alvalade Stadium in Lisbon, Portugal on Sunday, March 23, 2025. (Photo: Bo Amstrup Ritzau Scanpix)

“It is way over the line. Hopefully, the journalist is undergoing some serious soul-searching because the way of writing about another person is completely wrong. And we in the Players’ Association have to say that clearly and distinctly,” Hansen stated.

He went on to describe the editorial as a deeply offensive and inappropriate attempt to undermine the player.

“It is completely distasteful to try to denigrate a player in that way, by drawing parallels to a deeply serious illness and by fat-shaming,” he added.

Calls for Accountability in Danish Media

Hansen also emphasized the need for higher journalistic standards when discussing football performances, insisting that critiques should remain professional and avoid personal attacks.

Kasper Schmeichel of Celtic FC reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Knockout Play-off second leg match between FC Bayern München and Celtic FC at on February 18, 2025 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

“Anders Olsen’s leader is a flawed, flat, and sad example of the need for this particular initiative. The leader is under all criticism and could easily make him a strong candidate for the role of clown in an upcoming campaign film for the initiative,” Hansen remarked pointedly.

“We must have room to discuss and debate in Danish football. And it is, of course, entirely appropriate to have professional opinions and analyses about the game and performances. But it must be done in a proper way, where one does not descend to such a low level and engage in direct personal attacks as seen here,” he added.

Worries that Kasper’s injury could end his season

The fallout from the article comes as Schmeichel faces an uncertain period on the sidelines due to his injury. Reports in Denmark suggest the veteran goalkeeper could be ruled out for several months, a significant blow for Celtic and manager Brendan Rodgers, who relies on his experience and leadership between the posts.

Hansen concluded his remarks by calling for accountability and an apology from the journalist involved.

Celtic goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel and Jeffrey Schlupp of Celtic applaud fans after final whistle Celtic v Hibernian, Scottish Gas Scottish Cup, Quarter Final, Celtic Park, 9 March 2025 Photo Stuart Wallace/Shutterstock

“I believe that Anders Olsen was not up to the task, that he must have gotten carried away in a really angry tone, and that, in my world, he owes an apology.”

The incident has sparked broader discussions about the role of the media in football criticism and the need for respectful discourse when analyzing players’ performances. As the backlash continues, Schmeichel remains a respected figure among fans and colleagues, with support pouring in from across the footballing world.

He’s certain to get a warm welcome back to Celtic Park.

Help raise funds for Celtic Youth Academy by playing the Celtic Pools Weekly Lottery and you could win up to £25,000. The lottery is £1 per week. Click on image to join.